Nagaï is a talented reggae singer, songwriter, and performer from the small island of Réunion, located in the Indian Ocean. On the occasion of her European tour and the release of her EP Back To My Roots, Nagaï shared insights into her island's culture and her future plans in this interview.

Reggae hr: How did reggae music come into your life?
Nagaï: I first got into reggae music during my childhood. I was introduced to it by my cousins who played me some classic Bob Marley tracks. At the same time, I started singing in church, like many Jamaican artists. It was there that I started developing my voice, probably.

Reggae hr: How do you integrate traditional music from Reunion Island with reggae?
Nagaï: The traditional music from Reunion Island is called 'Maloya'(It has origins in the music of African and Malagasy slaves trafficked by French colonists, and Indian indentured workers on the island). On stage, I play a traditional instrument - kayanm - and beyond just integrating the music of my island into my sound, I also bring my culture to life by singing in reunionese creole, my mother tongue. It’s a way for me to stay connected to my roots and share the authentic voice of my heritage with the audience.

Reggae hr: How did the connection between you and Roberto Sánchez come about for the EP Back To My Roots ?
Nagaï: It was my producer Kaboum Music who first told me about Roberto Sánchez, and then I discovered and listened to his work through the sound system culture.

Reggae hr: Your music is characterized by a meditative, roots atmosphere. Where do you draw inspiration for your songs?
Nagaï: I draw my inspiration from my personal experiences and my life journey. I’m lucky to live in a place where nature is so present, and this connection to nature is truly inspiring. There are so many artists inspire me with their conscious lyrics and the way they deliver them over reggae music but one I particularly appreciate is Dezarie. Her powerful voice and deep message resonate with me.

Reggae hr: Do you have a band around you, and can you describe the process of creating your songs in more detail?
Nagaï: Yeah, I'm well surrounded by 4 musicians. In general, I come up with a melody first, and then I work on the compositions with Romain, my guitarist.

Reggae hr: The future lies ahead of you—what are your plans?
Nagaï: I will be going on my first tour in March/ April 2025 in France, where I'll be opening for the legendary group Israel Vibration with Roots Radics Band. After that, I have a second tour scheduled for the summer of 2025, which will take us across Europe. I’m really looking forward to these tours and connecting with my fans in both France and Europe!

Photo: Jérémie Lapra